I too only got about 10 hours in and then gave up. I always felt like I was struggling to be strong enough/right level for the missions. I was not really doing any side missions, just focussing on the main quest.
It is in my pile of games to go back to. As I came to the PS4 ecosystem quite late, I have had no shortage of games to keep my PS4 pro employed. The back catalogue of classics is rather good.
It's not a game I would recommend that you just follow the main story on without levelling up. Using the right tactics and focusing on weaknesses really helps though. But there is a wealth of story to explore off the beaten track and before you know it you will have levelled up and wont be struggling.
Contrary to what others have said I wouldnt bother with the shield weaver armour. It just makes the game easy mode unless you are playing on hardest difficulty and sucks the challenge out of encounters. I would perhaps keep it in reserve for the DLC though.
Early on get yourself a war bow, sharpshooter now and a shadow carja sling. Invest in the skill tree to reduce the cost of creating ammo and kill as much wildlife as you can to help upgrade your carrying capacities - focus on bones and skins. Fox, Turkey, raccoon, boar and fish.
Finally make sure you utilise the weapon modifications to increase their power. Use the skill tree to unlock Tinker too.
